Fall means three things to me: hockey, football, and wearing pants on the golf course. The Gridiron Grip from BestGrips.com combines two of those.
When I was first asked if I would like to take a look at these, I was skeptical. Sure, I've used leather grips (and still do on my 52 degree wedge) but grips made out of the same material as a football? It's a fun idea but can it actually work?
(The Gridiron Grip looks and feels like and actual football.)
Gridiron Grips Arrive
They are made by BestGrips.com who offers the slogan: "The Finest Genuine Leather Sports Grips". Their website flooded with some of the most unique leather grips you will ever see and some you wouldn't think to put on your golf club. They have everything from putter covers to belts.
(The grips come sealed in plastic to prevent damage during shipping)
The grips arrived in a small box and were sealed in plastic to prevent any scratching or other damage during the shipping process. The box also included a business card, a sticker, and bright orange note warning me to use caution and install properly. The owner even goes as far as saying to call him if you have any questions on how to install them. If you prefer to go it alone, the website has some installation information to make sure you don't do any damage while putting your new grips on.
The Gridiron Grips
When I opened the plastic and finally got to my grip, I was impressed. This was like holding an actual football! The grip is soft but has a the football texture to it. I was able to grip the club properly and felt no strain in my wrist or hands. I didn't have to adjust from my natural grip to feel comfortable in any way. It felt right.
(The grips is stitched like and actual football. It runs the full length of the grip.)
One unique aspect is the stitching. When you use rubber grips you don't run into this issue and traditional leather grips are wrapped around. The stitch runs the full length of the grip and should be where your thumbs are placed (see top picture). While it is noticeable, I didn't think it hindered or impacted my ability to grip the club in anyway. I actually like the way it feels and it gives me the ability to line my hands up properly.
Overall
The one thing I would like to test (and maybe I will soon) is how the grips work when wet. If I remember correctly, footballs tend to get a bit slick in the rain. I didn't have an opportunity to test this but I am curious about it and if I do, I'll be sure to write about it.
I personally like these grips but I also enjoy the feel of a football in my hands. The pigskin allows for a good grip on the club without having to squeeze tightly causing any strain in your forearms or wrists. I can't stress this enough, if you don't like the feel of a football, you will not like these grips. If you are looking to make the transition from rubber grips to leather, this might be a nice option too.
Who: BestGrips.com
What: The new Gridiron Grips. They are made just like a football!
Cost: $16.00 each
Options: Choice of color, Burgundy or tan
When: Buy them any time on their website.
Why: If you have not found a grip you love and enjoy the feel of a football in your hands.
How: Check their website for how to install new grips. You can always bring it over to your local pro who will usually do it for a small fee.
*Bestgrips.com provided two grips at no cost for me to review. As always, my reviews are 100% my own opinion regardless of payment, goods or services being provided.
Comments